Zimmer was taken to the hospital -- the attending nurse quickly realized what they were dealing with.

On top of the usual lifestyle for a 10-year-old, Zimmer also has to track his carbohydrate intake, calculate insulin doses and inject himself -- lessons he and his mother were taught at the Stollery Children’s Hospital in Edmonton.

“In the first week you’re back and forth to the city,” she said. “Over the years we’ve gone back every three to six months for checkups.”

While his condition is manageable, Zimmer enjoys almost all of the joys of childhood.

However there are a few drawbacks.

“It’s harder to go over to friends places for sleepovers,” Zimmer said. “One of my friends helps me by making sure I’m good.”

“He’s never gone for a sleepover,” Jenifer said. “When he’s out it’s stressful because you’re wondering if he’s okay where he is.”

Zimmer’s hobbies include building model cars and BMX biking.

“One that I’m starting to work on is a dodge viper, it’s a hardtop.”

To take part in the walk, pledge forms can be picked up from Jenifer before-hand or at the event. There is a suggested donation of $100 to start but all amounts are welcomed, tax receipts are given for donations of $20 or more.

Zimmer’s tips to kids who learn that they have juvenile diabetes are “don’t be scared and just go with it,” he said.